Staying Sharp: A Guide to Boosting Brain Health

In the United States, 1 in 10 adults over the age of 45 are experiencing worsening memory loss or cognitive decline. It’s more important than ever to do what is possible to keep our minds sharp and our memories strong as we age. Cognitive health is the ability to think, learn and remember clearly and is critical to our ability to carry out many daily activities effectively. 

While many factors are involved in overall cognitive health, there are science-backed strategies you can use to keep your brain sharp as a tack in the coming years. Keep reading for our tips on boosting brain health: 

Learn Something New

Picking up a new skill – whether it’s an instrument, hobby, or language – challenges your brain in new ways. Studies have proven that learning something new can enhance your existing neural connections which supports memory and cognitive functions. 

Keep it Moving

Staying active on a daily basis, even going for a short walk, increases the blood flow to the brain which supports both mental and physical health. Movement can also release endorphins that improve your mood and reduce stress, which are both beneficial to brain health in the long-term. 

Adequate Sleep

Sleep is one of the most essential factors for effective memory consolidation and cognitive processing. Deep sleep allows our brain to activate a process that removes toxins from our brain, helping prevent long-term cognitive illnesses. Establish a healthy bedtime routine and stick to it for the best quality sleep. 

Play Games

Taking time to play games like crosswords, Sudoku, or memory-matching games helps keep the brain active and engaged. Practicing simple exercises like remembering a list of items or recalling details from a recent event can strengthen memory over time. Need inspiration to get started? Try playing the “memory palace” game where you try to visualize items within your home. 

Stay Social

Staying connected to others socially is a great way to protect your cognitive health. Social interactions reduce stress, combat depression, and provide mental stimulation. Connecting with friends, joining a club, volunteering or passing a quiet afternoon with family all help stimulate the brain and improve overall emotional well-being. 

One at a Time

Multitasking can be glorified in our society, but when it comes to your brain health, it’s a no-no. Focusing on one task at a time is proven to improve memory and retention. Try to focus on one thing at a time whenever possible. 

Snack Smart

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, walnuts, berries, and dark chocolate, support overall brain function. Add a daily snack with these nutrients to ensure your brain has what it needs to stay healthy. Dehydration can impair your concentration, memory, and mental clarity. Don’t underestimate the importance of drinking enough water.

Prioritize Overall Health

It’s so important to be sure that your overall health is being looked after. Stay on top of your dental cleanings, annual wellness checks, and other preventative doctor visits. Excessive alcohol and smoking are both linked to faster cognitive decline. Limiting or avoiding these can improve overall brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. 

Keeping your brain sharp as you age is not only possible but empowering! Consider incorporating these simple, science-backed strategies into your daily life and reap the benefits of enhancing your cognitive function. It’s never too late to add new habits to your routine that promote overall brain health. Each small step contributes to a vibrant, resilient mind. Embrace the journey of lifelong learning and make a commitment to prioritize your brain health today!